How mum inspired 'goofy' Mendoza to brink of NFL stardom
Fernando Mendoza is almost certain to be the first pick in the NFL Draft after rising from obscurity and his mother, who lives with multiple sclerosis, has been his main source of inspiration.
Fernando Mendoza's family joined him on the field after Indiana won the national championship Fernando Mendoza had already shed a tear after being named the best player in college football. But as the Indiana quarterback gave his Heisman Trophy acceptance speech, his voice really began to crack when he talked directly to his mother. "This is your trophy as much as it is mine," he said.
"You've always been my biggest fan. You're my light, you're my why. " Elsa Mendoza hasn't just been a devoted 'football mom'.
After living with multiple sclerosis (MS) for nearly 20 years, she is now a wheelchair user and the inspiration behind Fernando's rise from obscurity. "You taught me that toughness doesn't need to be loud," he added. "It can be quiet and strong.
It is believing in yourself when the world doesn't give you much reason to. " Now the 'goofy' business graduate is the overwhelming favourite to be picked first in this year's NFL Draft and link up with his idol Tom Brady. Alberto Mendoza (right) was back-up quarterback to brother Fernando (left) last season Having played tennis at the University of Miami, Elsa Mendoza encouraged her three sons to play sports and work hard academically.